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Opening a US bank account from Thailand: your options
A US bank account makes it easier to receive dollars, pay US services and, later, get a US credit card. If you live in Thailand, there are three realistic routes.
1. A personal account at a US bank branch
Some large US banks open accounts for non-residents, but usually only in person at a branch in the US, with your passport, often a second ID, an address and an SSN or ITIN. Requirements differ between banks and even branches.
2. A business account for your US LLC
If you own a US LLC, several US banks and online business-banking services open accounts for non-US owners online. They'll ask for the company's formation documents, its EIN and your passport. For sellers and freelancers this is often the most practical route.
3. Multi-currency accounts with US account details
Services such as Wise and Payoneer give you US account and routing numbers to receive USD — for example from US platforms — without a US bank. They aren't full US bank accounts and usually don't build US credit, but they're quick to open from Thailand.
What banks usually ask for
- A valid passport, sometimes with a second ID.
- A US taxpayer number — SSN or ITIN — for personal accounts at most banks.
- Proof of address; for a business, its formation documents and EIN.
- A tax form about your status, such as Form W-8BEN.
Watch out for
- Anyone offering to "rent" you a US address or identity for a bank application — giving false information to a bank is fraud.
- Fees on incoming international transfers and currency conversion — compare before you choose.
General information — banks set their own requirements, and they change often.
Most US personal accounts need an ITIN
Apply for your ITIN from Thailand — fully online, with help in Thai and English.
Get your ITIN →More guides
- What is an ITIN, and do you need one?
- How to apply for an ITIN from Thailand
- Which documents do you need for an ITIN?
- Does an ITIN expire? How to renew it
- Form W-8BEN for Thai YouTubers, authors and investors
- US LLC for Thai sellers: Amazon, Shopify, Stripe and more
- How to get an EIN without an SSN (for non-US owners)
- Filing a US tax return (1040-NR) from Thailand
- Getting paid in US dollars in Thailand: bank transfer, Wise, Payoneer or PayPal
General information only — not tax or legal advice. TinTax is not affiliated with the IRS.